Chapel Hill vs Raleigh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chapel Hill, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $173,256▲ | $168,123 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.29▲ | $80.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $100,489 | $103,207▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $134,505▲ | $129,452 |
| 75th Percentile | $208,153▲ | $205,961 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $264,016▲ | $220,190 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Chapel Hill, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Raleigh.
The salary gap between Chapel Hill and Raleigh is $5,133 (3.05%). Chapel Hill's median is +23.22% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chapel Hill spans $163,527,Raleigh spans $116,983. Chapel Hill has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Chapel Hill ($185,103 effective) pays 8.07% more than Raleigh ($171,280 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chapel Hill if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($173,256/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($264,016)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $185,103)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chapel Hill grew 38.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 61.2% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Chapel Hill, NC
$121,470 (2024) → $168,275 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$101,270 (2019) → $163,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chapel Hill, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov